Hi BSPHIPPS,
The choices you are looking at are choices between “good and good” and there are no weak links in either of them so this is when I step out of the way so that each member can make a decision based on the parts of their personal value equation that are most important to them. Post #2 here has more about making final choices when there are no clear winners between them.
[quote]I need advise on foundation as well. Is something like this necessary or is there a better, potentially cheaper option?
www.brooklynbedding.com/accessories/foun...genius-hi-rise-frame[/quote]
A suitable support surface (bedframe/foundation or platform bed) would be necesssary yes but this would probably be fine for either one (although if you buy a foundation separately I would always check with a manufacturer or retailer to make sure the foundation you choose meets the warranty criteria). The foundation thread here also has other options that may be worth considering.
Plywood with holes won’t be as breathable as a slatted or wire grid foundation but it would probably be fine in terms of ventilation. It would also depend on what the plywood was resting on and whether it was stable or could shift when you sleep on it.
A good quality platform bed that was strong enough, had a strong and suitable support surface, and had good center support to the floor would probably be more costly than some of the other options you have available but then you would have an actual bed as your part of your bedroom furniture and decor rather than a steel bedframe / foundation or a combination bedframe/foundation (with the wire grid type) which some people may prefer.
Phoenix